Three’s Company remains a beloved classic, known for its hilarious moments, unforgettable characters, and timeless humor. But there’s one episode from Season 5, “A Crowded Romance,” that has recently resurfaced and sparked a lively debate among fans. What is it about this episode that still stirs up emotions, even decades later?
A Brief Recap of Three’s Company and Its Charm
From 1977 to 1983, Three’s Company captivated audiences with its slapstick comedy, misunderstandings, and the endearing chemistry between its main characters: Jack (John Ritter), Janet (Joyce DeWitt), and Chrissy (Suzanne Somers). Set in a Santa Monica apartment, the series followed the trio’s comedic adventures, most famously centered around Jack pretending to be gay to live with the two women and avoid scandal with their landlords.
However, one particular episode from Season 5, “A Crowded Romance,” has recently garnered attention, not only for its comedic moments but also for the absence of Suzanne Somers. Let’s dive into why this episode has fans buzzing today.
The Episode: “A Crowded Romance”
“A Crowded Romance,” which aired on December 2, 1980, was the fifth episode of Three’s Company’s fifth season. In this episode, Larry (Richard Kline) meets a woman he believes is “the one” and asks Janet to send her flowers. Janet enlists Jack to deliver them, and after meeting the woman, both men find themselves dating her—unaware that the other is also pursuing her.
The situation becomes even more complicated when Larry takes the woman to a new job that Jack has secured for her. This misunderstanding leads to the comedic love triangle that is at the heart of the episode. The humor is quintessential Three’s Company—miscommunication, awkward moments, and a dash of romance.
Three’s Company. Credit / Getty Images
The Absence of Suzanne Somers
For Three’s Company fans, one noticeable thing about this episode is that Suzanne Somers, who played Chrissy Snow, isn’t present. This absence was due to the timing of the 1980 Screen Actors Guild and AFTRA strike, which delayed the production of the show. Suzanne had planned a stage show in Las Vegas during the filming period, which led to her being written out of this episode. Ironically, by the time the episode aired, Somers’ contract dispute with the producers had already begun, which would eventually lead to her being written out of multiple episodes.
But was this the only reason for Suzanne Somers’ absence? The answer lies in her demands for a significant pay raise. In 1981, Somers requested a 500% raise, asking for $150,000 per episode to match her co-star John Ritter’s salary. When her request was denied, Somers was ultimately fired from the show. Her absence in A Crowded Romance marks the start of her estrangement from Three’s Company, a turning point that would dramatically change the show’s dynamic.
A Cheeky Gesture That Sparks Controversy
In A Crowded Romance, one of the most memorable moments is Jack’s playful nudge to Janet during a scene where she encourages him to do some wake-up exercises. Jack quips that he’s already done “20 hair combs and two sets of teeth brushing,” only to give Janet a nudge on the backside, which she reacts to with, “I hate when you do that.”
While this moment was meant to be lighthearted, it has sparked intense debate in today’s context. What was once considered innocuous humor is now often seen through a more critical lens. Some fans on TikTok have pointed out how inappropriate Jack’s actions seem, especially considering modern sensibilities around workplace behavior and consent. One user commented, “I haven’t watched this since I was a kid, never realized how inappropriate Jack was!”
Others, however, defend the scene, claiming it was part of the show’s playful and harmless humor. “It was funny stupid humor! Unfortunately gone today,” said one viewer, reflecting nostalgia for the past when such moments were more acceptable.
Changing Times: How Humor Has Evolved
This moment highlights a broader shift in how society views humor, particularly in sitcoms from the 70s and 80s. What was once seen as playful banter now raises questions about gender dynamics and respect. While Three’s Company is remembered fondly for its slapstick comedy and lighthearted moments, its portrayal of women, especially through suggestive humor, may not align with today’s values surrounding gender equality and workplace respect.
The show’s historical context cannot be ignored, as Three’s Company was part of a time when gender roles and behaviors were often portrayed in ways that we might now consider inappropriate. Still, it remains a beloved piece of television history, with these moments offering both a reflection of the era and a catalyst for conversation about how much has changed in the last few decades.
Janet’s Iconic Hairstyles: A Fun Fact
A lesser-known but delightful detail from Three’s Company is Janet’s ever-evolving hairstyle. Fans fondly remember her thick, shiny hair from the earlier seasons, often comparing it to the popular “Dorothy Hamill” wedge cut that captured the 70s fashion vibe. Janet’s signature look, especially during the fourth, fifth, and sixth seasons, became iconic.
Interestingly, Joyce DeWitt’s hairstyle was created by New York freelancer Harry King, who gave her hair a light, airy feel with short, even layers. DeWitt’s hairstyle was so beloved that it inspired many women to rush to salons in hopes of recreating the look. The evolution of her hair is a fun and nostalgic aspect of the show that fans continue to talk about to this day.
Behind the Scenes: Bloopers and Set Mistakes
Like any long-running sitcom, Three’s Company had its share of behind-the-scenes bloopers. One fan pointed out a potential set mistake in “A Crowded Romance” where the top of the set was visible during one of the scenes. While some fans were quick to notice this, others dismissed it as simply part of the retro charm of the show, noting that it was common for such minor mistakes to go unnoticed at the time.
The Enduring Legacy of Three’s Company
Despite the controversies and evolving views on certain humor, Three’s Company remains a classic sitcom that still has the power to get people talking. Whether it’s the chemistry between the cast, Janet’s hairstyles, or the moments of humor that push boundaries, the show continues to capture the hearts of fans old and new.
What do you think about the episode “A Crowded Romance”? Do you think Jack’s gesture was harmless fun or did it go too far? Share your thoughts, and let’s continue the conversation on the lasting legacy of Three’s Company.
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